Crypto Star Nikita Anufriev Invited to Exclusive Trump Gala in D.C.

One of the crypto world’s most recognizable voices, Nikita Anufriev, is heading to Washington. The founder of the Headliners podcast and former CMO of viral mobile app Hamster Kombat has been invited to a private gala dinner with Donald Trump, the 47th President of the United States. The event is set to take place on May 22, 2025, and it’s already turning heads—not just in political circles, but across the crypto industry.

A Dinner That Costs Millions Just to Attend

This isn’t just another black-tie event. The guest list is capped at 220 people, and every attendee earned their seat by holding large amounts of TRUMP—the newly launched token tied to Trump’s growing presence in the digital asset space. According to data from blockchain firm Inca Digital, those attending collectively hold over $148 million worth of the token. It’s an ultra-exclusive crowd, and Anufriev is one of the few international names on the list.

What makes this moment particularly interesting is that Nikita was one of the first major influencers to get behind the TRUMP token. When it launched at just $1.70, he called out its potential publicly. Just two days later, the token hit a staggering $75.35, pushing its market cap past $15 billion. Whether you love or hate meme tokens, that’s a serious move.

From Hamster Kombat to Political Circles

For those unfamiliar, Anufriev’s resume reads like a Web3 highlight reel. He co-founded Hamster Kombat, a mobile app that broke records with over 350 million users in just a few months. Since then, he’s focused on media and thought leadership through Headliners, which has become the biggest Russian-language crypto podcast out there. He also serves as an ambassador for the trading platform Hash Hedge.

When asked about the upcoming dinner, Anufriev said it wasn’t just about him: “It’s recognition for everything the Headliners community has built. I’ve always believed the most important opportunities come from real connections—and this event is full of people shaping what’s next.”

More Than Just a Photo Op

While some may roll their eyes at a Trump-branded crypto token, there’s no denying that this event blends politics, crypto, and media influence in a way that’s impossible to ignore. In a year where blockchain regulation is becoming a global hot topic, having crypto leaders rub shoulders with political powerhouses might lead to more than just good photo ops. It could spark conversations that move the industry forward—or at least shape how it’s perceived by regulators.

And Anufriev? He’s not just showing up for the glitz. He sees this as a chance to connect with builders, investors, and policy influencers who are serious about Web3. As someone who’s been on the ground floor of massive projects and communities, he understands how powerful the right room can be.

Crypto’s Next Chapter?

This event might also signal something bigger: a shift in how crypto leaders engage with global power structures. Whether you see it as strategic networking or a headline-grabbing PR move, there’s no question it places crypto—especially personalities like Anufriev—closer to the center of influence.

And if you ask him, that’s exactly where the conversation needs to be.